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TMJ Clicking Management — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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EasyOral MedicineTMJ Clicking ManagementORE Part 1

A patient reports clicking from one temporomandibular joint on opening and closing. MRI confirms anterior disc displacement with reduction. There is no pain, locking or limitation of mandibular function. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Explain the finding and provide reassurance

The correct answer is B. Disc displacement with reduction commonly produces a reciprocal click. Where clicking is painless, there is no locking and jaw function is normal, it rarely requires intervention; explanation and reassurance are appropriate. A stabilisation splint is not indicated solely to eliminate an asymptomatic click, and regular NSAIDs have no role when there is no pain or inflammation requiring symptom relief. Arthroscopy and total TMJ replacement are invasive treatments reserved for selected severe, symptomatic joint disease after appropriate conservative management, not an incidental painless click.

Reference: University Dental Hospital of Manchester, "Temporomandibular Disorder", current referral guidance: https://mft.nhs.uk/dental/about/referral-information-for-dental-practitioners/temporomandibular-disorder/